Raven-like in shape, but much smaller. Size similar to crows. All black. Heavy, stout, grayish bill. Slightly shaggy feathers on throat. Neck feathers white-based occasionally visible when feathers ruffled. Legs grayish-black. In flight, graduated, wedge-shaped tail. Similar to Common Raven but smaller, white-based neck feathers, stouter bill, different vocalizations.

Length: 49 (cm) Wingspan: 112 (cm)

Voice:

Hoarse, repeated kraah; usually higher-pitched than Common Raven.

Habitat:

Deserts and arid grasslands, especially where yucca and mesquite are present.

Behavior:

Gathers in large flocks.

Feeding:

Diet mostly consists of insects, lizards, small mammals, eggs, carrion, fruits and grain.